What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
develop
Example
She wants to develop her public speaking skills. [develop: verb]
Example
The company is developing a new software program. [developing: present participle]
Example
Their friendship developed over time. [developed: past tense]
expand
Example
The company plans to expand its operations overseas. [expand: verb]
Example
The universe is constantly expanding. [expanding: present participle]
Example
Can you expand on your point? [expanded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Develop and expand are both commonly used words in English, with develop being slightly more common in personal or professional contexts and expand being more common in business or industry contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between develop and expand?
Both develop and expand are versatile words that can be used in various formality levels, making them suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
